Since the beginning of the year, I’ve cut out alcohol.

I’ve had the occasional glass of wine or a beer — but the regular habit is gone. I used to drink several bottles of wine every week. Now? Almost none.

Why?
Because I wanted to feel better. Train better. Sleep better. I’m preparing for an Ironman — and every little decision matters.

And yet, one moment keeps coming back to me:

We were at a gathering. Everyone was drinking wine. I poured water into a wine glass. Someone looked at me and said, “You cheater.”

Wait… what?

I get up at 5 a.m. to run. I structure my day around my training. I say no to desserts, I skip late nights, I prioritize recovery. I push my body every single day.

But somehow not drinking makes me suspicious?

There’s something strange about how alcohol works in our culture. If you say “yes”, no one blinks. But say “no thanks”, and you have to explain yourself. As if your choice is a quiet protest — or a threat.

Let me be clear:
I’m not on a mission. I’m not trying to convince anyone. I just want to stay healthy, train smart, and feel good.

So the next time I pour water into a wine glass — it’s not because I’m a cheater.
It’s because I’m doing this my way.

What’s your experience with alcohol and training?
Did you cut it out — or do you keep it balanced